DETECTIVES are appealing for information following the report of an aggravated burglary in the Forthriver Crescent area of north Belfast on Sunday night, 5 July.

Detective Sergeant Arnott said: “We received a report, just before 11.25pm, that four masked men had forced their way into a house. 

“The intruders ransacked some rooms downstairs and threatened the female occupant, before making their way to the bedroom where they assaulted the male occupant.  One of the suspects was armed with a hammer, and it’s believed the others had some form of sticks.

“The victim was beaten with the hammer, and has sustained wounds and lacerations to his arm, ankle, head and body.  The injuries required hospital treatment.

“This was a shocking and brutal attack on a young man, aged in his 20s.

“The female occupant, who ran to a separate room to protect her two young children, has also understandably been left badly shaken.

“It’s believed the men, who were dressed in black, subsequently made off on foot.

“I am appealing to anyone with information, or who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area around that time, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1867 of 05/07/20.”

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org